Howard D. Ritter

Howard Dale Ritter was born on April 2, 1935, to Chauncey Clay Ritter and Augusta Frances (Redmon) Ritter.

He was the fifth child of seven and grew up in the small town of Ritchey, Missouri. His family did

not have much in terms of material things, but it was during this time that he learned the importance of family and working hard.

After graduating from high school, Howard joined the Air Force and served as a radio operator, flying around North America in various bombers. While based at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, he developed an interest in photography, a hobby that he pursued for most of his life and passed on to his sons. It was also during this time that he met and fell in love with a cute waitress name Faye Bellamy. When his Air Force service was complete, Howard and Faye married and moved to Missouri. Howard began his civil service career with the Department of the Army (DoA).

He and Faye served in Missouri, Italy, Germany, Wisconsin, and Texas. Their first son, Mike, was born in Missouri. Their second son, Greg, was born five years later while they were living in Germany. During his lengthy career with the DoA Howard served in a variety of roles including Civilian Personnel Officer at Camp McCoy WI, Fort Hood TX, and Fort Sam Houston TX (NAF). For his contributions to the Department of Army he was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award and the Commander’s

Award for Civilian Service.

Family was important to Howard and he, Faye, and the boys enjoyed being a part of the Methodist Church.

He and Faye often worked together supporting activities that involved Mike or Greg. The Marching 100 band was a focus during the boy’s high school years. Vacation was often spent visiting family in Missouri or South Carolina. Several “epic” family road trips were made to places like Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone, The Alamo, and Mt. Vernon. Later in life his focus shifted to his grandkids, attending sporting events, music & choir recitals, and dance performances.

Howard died peacefully on November 28, 2022. He was preceded in death by his wife Faye, his parents Clay & Augusta, his brothers Harold, Don, Carroll, & Eldon, and his sister Pauline. He is survived by sons Mike and Greg, their wives Thirza and Suzanne, and grandchildren Tristan, Abigail, Ella, Anna, & Joy.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AdvantageHoustonFunerals.com for the Ritter family.